GP starts implementing SMP impositions; set to withdraw writ petition

As per Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission's (BTRC) directives, Grameenphone has started to implement the two SMP impositions which have come into effect today.

"Grameenphone continues to work with the regulator, aiming to establish a best practice SMP framework. While the company reserves its rights, it has taken necessary steps to implement the two SMP impositions effective from July 1," says a press release issued on Wednesday.

The country's largest mobile phone operator also plans to withdraw a writ petition it filed on June 28 this year challenging the BTRC's decision to impose SMP restrictions on it.

"Grameenphone is implementing the two SMP impositions under protest," reads the release, adding that the company, however, remains hopeful that the prevailing gap in understanding between it and the BTRC can be resolved through constructive and meaningful dialogues. 

The two impositions that have come into effect from today are related to mobile number portability (MNP) and approval of products and services.

Mentioning that the country's mobile telecom market is competitive, Grameenphone said it has grown through timely investments, innovations and operational efficiency.

Regarding SMP impositions, it said, "The international SMP best practices prescribe that remedies should only be introduced after conducting a proper analysis to ascertain that market failures exist. The remedies should also be proportionate and specific to the problems identified."

"Therefore, Grameenphone continues to disagree with the two impositions, they are not promoting customer benefits and there is a lack of requisite evidence of market failure," reads the release.